Tishah be-Av, << TIHSH ah buh AHV, >> is a Jewish day of mourning observed on the ninth day of the Hebrew month of Av (approximately August). On that day, Jews commemorate the destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem in 587 or 586 B.C. and the destruction of the Second Temple in A.D. 70. The day also commemorates other tragic events in Jewish history, including Nazi Germany’s campaign of mass murder of Jews called the Holocaust. For three weeks before Tishah be-Av, Jews observe partial mourning and hold no weddings or celebrations. Many Jews fast throughout the day.
The Biblical Book of Lamentations is recited in the synagogue the evening that begins the holiday. During the morning service, a collection of poems is added that mourn the destruction of the temples and other tragic occasions.
